MILL HALL- Millbrook Playhouse launched its major summer production of the timeless Broadway classic “Annie, the Musical” last week, and shows will continue through July 3 on the Ryan Main Stage, a press release said.

“This heartwarming musical brings together a professional cast, a talented local youth ensemble, and an extraordinary collection of community partners,” said the press release.

Based on the popular comic strip “Little Orphan Annie,” the show remains one of the most successful, globally celebrated, and enduring musicals in theater history. With a book by Thomas Meehan, a score by Charles Strouse, and lyrics by Martin Charnin, this seven-time Tony Award-winning show celebrates resilience and the human spirit. Featuring hits like “Tomorrow” and “It’s the Hard-Knock Life,” Annie delivers a reminder of what truly defines a family.

The professional design and production team includes associate producer and director Ericka Lee Conklin; choreographer Ceci Salome; music director Wesley Morgan; scenic designer Cade M. Sikora; lighting designer Victoria Bain; costume designer Cole Hudson; assistant costume designer and wardrobe supervisor Jacob Robertson; junior scenic designer Jonas Hildreth; props Designer V.C. Deener; Production Stage Manager Daniel Kandra; Assistant Stage Manager Isebella Miller; sound engineer Kaidyn Rogers; and sound consultant Sean McGinley.

The production features a local connection: Director Ericka Lee Conklin’s father, Richard L. Conklin, makes his MPH debut as President Franklin D. Roosevelt. The production stars Steve Aguirre as billionaire Oliver Warbucks, performing alongside his six-year-old daughter, Diana Aguirre, who makes her stage debut in the youth ensemble.

The title role of Annie is played by local youth actors Hartlyn Kiess and Amelya Sox in alternating performances. Comedic villainy is provided by Ricky Kessler as Miss Aggie Hannigan, Emir Garcia as Rooster Hannigan, and Rachel Kern as Lily St. Regis. Cameron Clements stars as Grace Farrell.

The Warbucks Cast includes: Hartlyn Kiess (Annie), Diana Aguirre (Molly), Eleanor Peters (Pepper), Caroline Smith (Duffy), Mo DePasquale (Kate), Noelle Look (Tessie), Willow Kremser (July). The Sandy Cast includes: Amelya Sox (Annie), Haidyn Corl (Molly), Mazee Sox (Pepper), Sierra Kolk (Duffy), Mia Petruzzi (Kate), Eva Lyons (Tessie), Makaelyn Polk (July).

Remaining performances will be held at 7:30 pm. June 25-27, July 1-3; and 2 p.m. June 28 and July 1.

For more information or tickets, visit MillbrookPlayhouse.org or call 570-748-8083.